Greens want a fair go

READY TO RUN: Greens candidates for the 2012 state election (from left) Dr Clare Rudkin (Lockyer), Ursula Monsiegneur (Ipswich West) and Veronica White (Ipswich) at the site of a new coal to liquid research facility at Ebenezer.

David Nielsen

THREE Greens candidates in the Ipswich region will highlight poor planning practices as an example of the current State Government's failings.

Dr Clare Rudkin, a zoologist who teaches veterinary science at Gatton, will contest the seat of Lockyer in the March 24 state election.

She says voters are angry with the current government's policies.

"They're not giving enough importance to farming land, and the planning is very poor," she said.

"I'm running because the Greens are about social justice and a fair go for people," she said.

"They're not beholden to private interests."

Thagoona candidate Ursula Monsiegneur, campaigning in Ipswich West, said lack of future planning as in rail services and industrialisation of rural areas was a huge election issue.

She points out the "coal-to- liquid" research facility, under construction at Ebenezer, as a planning blunder.

"No one knew about it so didn't put in objections. People don't want this facility here," she said.

Candidate for Ipswich and youth worker, Veronica White, is concerned about the impacts on surrounding residents of major developments like the Bundamba racing precinct.

"I'll be focusing on employment and education, health and support services," she said.

The Greens candidates will meet the public at their campaign launch on Friday at Viva Italia, Shop 5, Old Flour Mill, 231 Brisbane St, Ipswich, from 7pm.